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International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research 2011; 3(2): 112-115

Research Article

ISSN 0975-248X

Phytochemical Screening and Aphrodisiac Activity of Asparagus

racemosus
Javeed Ahmed Wani1*, Rajeshwara N. Achur1, R. K. Nema2
1

Department of Biochemistry, Kuvempu University, Shankaraghatta, Shimoga 577451, Karnataka, India

2
Rishiraj College of Pharmacy, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India

ABSTRACT
The plant Asparagus racemosus is widely distributed in the Himalayan and sub-Himalayan regions of India. Based on
preliminary reports, there is a lot of interest in using the roots of this plant for treating sexual disorders. In this study, the
hydro-alcoholic and aqueous extracts of the roots of Asparagus racemosus were subjected to preliminary phytochemical
screening which showed the presence of saponins, carbohydrates, glycosides and mucilages. The total extracts were tested
for their aphrodisiac activity in experimental rats. The hydro-alcoholic extract of Asparagus racemosus root at higher
concentration (400 mg/kg body weight) showed significant aphrodisiac activity on male wistar albino rats as evidenced by
an increase in number of mounts and mating performance. On the other hand, hydro-alcoholic extract at lower dose (200
mg/kg. body weight) and aqueous extract (400 mg/kg body weight) showed moderate aphrodisiac property. Thus, in
experimental rats, the results of the present study suggest that the extracts of Asparagus racemosus exert significant
aphrodisiac activity. Further, detailed studies are needed to know whether in-vivo administration of the extracts is
beneficial for patients suffering from sexual disorders.
Keywords: Asparagus racemosus, Aphrodisiac, Mating, Sex stimulant, Rat.
INTRODUCTION
Asparagus racemosus is also known as Shatavari, which
belongs to family Liliaceae. The roots are cylindrical, fleshy
and tuberous. The roots are 30-100 cm in length, 1-2 cm in
thickness and yellowish-cream in colour. The roots contain
long needle shaped structure known as pith which is meant
for the conduction of water. [1] The plant enjoys considerable
reputation in Indian system of medicine. Traditionally, the
plant has been in use as a galactagogue which stimulates the
secretion of breast milk. The other uses of plant are in
aphrodisiacs, demulcent, rheumatism, diarrhoea, dysentry,
tuberculosis, diabetes, antioxidant, antitussive, nervous
disorders, hyperacidity, general debility, habitual abortion
and safe delivery. [1-2] Asparagus racemosus is also
considered to be an Ayurvedic rejuvenating tonic for overall
health and vitality in female. The reputed adaptogenic
properties of the plant are attributed to the presence of high
concentrations of saponins, known as Shatavarins. It is
considered as very good energy provider to the weak body
system. It is estimated that in India, more than 500 tonnes of
shatavari roots are needed every year for various medicinal
*Corresponding author: Mr. Javeed Ahmed Wani,
Department of Biochemistry, Kuvempu University,
Shankaraghatta, Shimoga 577451, Karnataka, India;
E-mail: javed.wani8@gmail.com, rajachur@gmail.com

preparations.
Aphrodisiacs are the substances which are used to increase
sexual activity and help in fertility. Sexual feelings are an
inevitable part of life. The basic and fundamental purpose of
sex and sexuality is the continuation of progeny and the
survival of human race. [3] The sex is the most intimate,
indispensable and an integral part of every individual and can
be a source of pleasure and fulfillment. However,
unfortunately, there has been a lot of ignorance, wrong
information, fear and negative attitude as for as sex is
concerned. Myths and misconceptions are rampant and are
passed on from generation to generation. These sexual myths
can result in sexual dysfunctions, misery, silent suffering,
disturbed interpersonal relationships and even divorce.
Sexual ignorance is a social disease and can only be resolved
through comprehensive sex education, which can increase
awareness and improve the environment. In fact, it is
possible that with proper sex education, the number of
unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases
would be reduced considerably. [4]
Infertility is a worldwide medical and social problem. It
affects above 10-15% of married couples. WHO estimates
that there are 60-80 million infertile couples worldwide.
Infertility in itself may not threaten physical health but it can
certainly have a serious impact on the mental and social wellbeing of infertile couple. In many countries the stigma of

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Wani et al. / Phytochemical Screening and Aphrodisiac Activity of Asparagus .

infertility often leads to marital disharmony, divorce or
Ostracism. [5-6]
Research during the past two decades has an unfolded focus
on impotence (erectile failure), premature ejaculation and
male infertility. There are a number of prescription drugs
which may act as sex stimulant and enhancing the sexual
desire and activity in both men and women. Although the use
of allopathic medicines have shown significant improvement
in treating sexual disorders, but at the same time there are
large number of side effects. These include irregularities of
the rhythm of the heart, suicidal tendencies, mental disorders
and tremors. The use of synthetic aphrodisiacs results in the
dialation of blood vessels in other parts of the body causing
headache and fainting. Other side effects include facial
flushing, stomach upset, blurred vision and sensitivity to light
which usually occur at higher doses. [7]
Thus, there is growing need to look for aphrodisiacs more of
natural plant or herbal origin as opposed to synthetic
compounds which are known to cause severe unwanted side
effects. In this regard, we undertook the present studies on
Asparagus racemosus which has been known as an
aphrodisiac. Although there are some preliminary reports
about the aphrodisiac property of Asparagus racemosus,
there has been no systematic study to substantiate this
activity. Taking the male infertility rate and sexual
dysfunctions into consideration, the current studies on
aphrodisiac activity on Asparagus racemosus is intended to
look for safe and powerful aphrodisiac. We have studied the
plant extracts for their in vivo aphrodisiac activity on wistar
albino rats at various dosages.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Plant material
The fresh plant was collected from University of Agricultural
Sciences, Bangalore (Fig. 1). The same were botanically
identified, confirmed and authenticated by Regional
Research Institute, Bangalore. The fresh roots of Asparagus
racemosus were washed with water and cut into small pieces.
These were air dried for 10 days and the dried materials were
powdered and subjected for different extractions. The
extraction was performed by cold maceration method.

Fig. 1: Asparagus recemosus plant

Preparation of hydro-alcoholic extract

About 1000 g of Asparagus racemosus root powder were
immersed in hydro-alcoholic solution (80% ethanol) in a
5000 ml flat bottom flask and was cold extracted for 7 days
with occasional shaking and warming. At the end of the
seventh day, the clear filtrate was obtained by filtering
through a Buchner funnel. The filtrate was further
concentrated by vacuum distillation, cooled, transferred into

a Petri dish and dried in an oven at 60C for a period of five

minutes. Finally, the hydro-alcoholic extract was kept in a
desiccator for 15 days to remove the excessive moisture and
was used for further studies. [8-9]
Preparation of aqueous extract
Asparagus racemosus root powder was also subjected to
aqueous extraction. About 1000 g of Asparagus racemosus
root powder were immersed in aqueous solution in a 5000 ml
flat bottom flask and was cold extracted for 7 days with
occasional shaking and warming. At the end of the seventh
day, the clear filtrate was obtained by filtering through a
Buchner funnel. The filtrate was further concentrated by
vacuum distillation, cooled, transferred into a Petri dish and
dried in an oven at 60C for a period of five minutes. Finally,
the aqueous extract was kept in a desiccator for 15 days to
remove the excessive moisture and was used for further
studies. [8-9]
Qualitative phytochemical analysis
The hydro-alcoholic and aqueous extracts of Asparagus
racemosus were subjected to different chemical tests for the
detection of phytoconstituents such as carbohydrates,
glycosides, alkaloids, proteins, amino acids, tannins,
phenolics, saponins, flavonoids, triterpenoids, steroids, fixed
oils, gums and mucilages. [10-13]
Tests for carbohydrates
The carbohydrates were tested by using Benedict's test,
Fehling's test, Molisch test and Barfoed's test. [10]
Tests for alkaloids
The alkaloids have been tested by using Dragendroff's test,
Wagner's test, Mayer's test and Hager's test. [11]
Tests for proteins and amino acids
Tests like Biuret test, Xanthoprotein test, Lead Acetate test
and Ninhydrin test were used for the analysis of proteins and
amino acids. [11]
Tests for tannins and phenolics
Test for tannins and phenolics were performed by adding 2-3
drops of ferric chloride to 1ml of extract for the formation of
a dark blue or greenish black colour product which shows the
presence of tannins. [12]
Test for flavonoids
Flavonoids were tested by means of Shinoda Test. [10]
Test for triterpenoids
Test for triterpenoids was done by dissolving two or three
granules of tin metal in 2 ml thionyl chloride solution and
then, add 1 ml of the extract into the test tube. The formation
of a pink colour indicates the presence of triterpenoids. [13]
Tests for steroids
The steroids were tested by using Libermann Burchard test,
Salkowski test and Liebermann's reaction. [11-12]
Test for saponins
The procedure adopted for the identification of saponins was
to take 1 ml of extract which is diluted with 20 ml distilled
water and then shaken in a graduated cylinder for 15 minutes.
A 1 cm layer of foam indicates the presence of saponins. [11]
Tests for fixed oils
The fixed oils have been tested by means of Spot test and
Saponification test. [10]
Tests for glycosides
Tests like Legal test, Baijet test, Borntrager's test and Keller
Kiliani Test were used for the analysis of glycosides. [10, 13]
Test for gums and mucilages
Test for gums were performed by hydrolyzing the 1 ml of
extract using dil. HCl (3ml). Then Fehlings solution is added

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drop by drop till red colour is developed. [11] Test for
mucilages were carried out by treating 1 ml of extract with 2
ml of ruthenium red solution to get red colour solution. [11]
Animals
Healthy adult albino rats of istar strain, weighing about 150200 g were obtained from the J. S. S. Animal house,
Ootacamund. The rats of either sex were isolated and housed
in separate cages during the course of experimental period
and kept them at room temperature (24 2C) with a 12 : 12
h light/dark cycle. The animals were fed with standard pellet
diet and provided water ad libitum. All the procedures in this
study were performed in accordance with the NIH guidelines
for the care and use of laboratory animals, after getting the
approval from the JSS Institutional Animal Ethics Committee
(Approval number : JSSCP/IAEC/Ph.D.- 01/84/2008-09).
Preparation of male rats
The male rats were trained, for sexual behavior, two times a
day for a period of minimum of 10 days. The male rat which
did not show any sexual interest during the test period was
considered as an inactive male. The sexually active male rats
were selected for testing aphrodisiac activity of the extracts.
Preparation of female rats
Female rats were housed in separate cages with food and
water ad libitum. The female rats were brought in oestrous
phase by treating them with estradiol valerate (10 microgram
/ kg body wt. s.c. and hydroxy progesterone 1.5mg/kg b. wt.
s.c., for 48 hours and 5 hours prior to experimentation,
respectively, to make them sexually acceptable and were
selected for the study.
Experimental details
The sexually active male rats were chosen separately and
divided into 6 groups; each group consisting of 6 animals.
The animals in the divided groups received the treatment
orally. Different groups of animals which received the plant
extract and the control are as follows:
Gro
Treatment
Dose
up
2 ml/kg
I
Control (Normal saline)
b.wt.
4.5 mg/kg
II
Positive control (Sildenafil citrate)
b.wt.
Aqueous extract of Asparagus
200 mg/kg
III
racemosus
b.wt.
400 mg/kg
Aqueous extract of Asparagus
IV
racemosus
b.wt.
200 mg/kg
Hydro-alcoholic extract of Asparagus
V
racemosus
b.wt.
400 mg/kg
Hydro-alcoholic extract of Asparagus
VI
racemosus
b.wt.
The sexual behavior of the experimental rats was observed in
a dim light in specially designed cages that have glasses on
all the sides and measuring 503030cm. The male
experimental rat was first placed in the cage and then two
female rats in estrous phase were introduced. An initial
period of 15 minutes was considered as acclimatization
period. After 15 minutes, the extract or the drug was
introduced and the activity of male rat in each group was
recorded individually for 60 minutes, after 30 minutes of
drug administration. [14-17]
To determine the aphrodisiac activity of the extracts, several
parameters were observed. These include measuring and
observing the mount frequency, mount latency, intromission

frequency, intromission latency, genital grooming and

anogenital sniffing.
Statistical analysis
The obtained data were expressed as meanstandard error of
mean (SEM) of six animals in each group. The data from all
the groups were analyzed using one way analysis of variance
(ANOVA) followed by Dunnetts t-test using Graph pad
instate software. [18]
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Phytochemical screening
The hydro-alcoholic and aqueous extracts of Asparagus
racemosus were subjected to qualitative phytochemical
screening for the detection of phytoconstituents like
carbohydrates, glycosides, alkaloids, proteins, amino acids,
tannins, phenolics, saponins, flavonoids, triterpenoids,
steroids, fixed oils, gums and mucilages. The results revealed
the presence of saponins, carbohydrates, glycosides and
mucilages (Table 1).
Table 1: Qualitative Phytochemical analysis of Asparagus racemosus
root extracts
Hydro-alcoholic
Aqueous
S. No
Phytoconstituents
extract
extract
1.
Carbohydrates
+
+
2.
Alkaloids
3.
Proteins & Amino acids
4.
Tannins & Phenolics
5.
Saponins
+
+
6.
Flavonoids
7.
Triterpenoids
8.
Steroids
9.
Glycosides
+
10.
Fixed oils
11.
Gums
12.
Mucilages
+
+
(+): Indicates the presence of chemical constituents
(-): Indicates the absence of chemical constituents

Aphrodisiac activity
The aphrodisiac activity of aqueous and hydro-alcoholic
extracts of Asparagus racemosus were studied on male wistar
albino rats at various dosages. The parameters observed
during the study were mount frequency, mount latency,
intromission frequency, intromission latency, ano-genital
sniffing and genital grooming (Table 2).
Mount frequency
The results revealed that a significant increase in mount
frequency was observed in animals treated with hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts at higher concentration 400
mg/kg body weight. On the other hand, hydro-alcoholic
extract at lower concentration 200 mg/kg body weight
possesses moderate aphrodisiac activity. Whereas aqueous
extract 200 mg/kg body weight does not show any activity.
Therefore, the above investigations clearly indicate an
enhanced sexual activity in animals treated with plant
extracts (Table 2).
Mount latency
The results revealed that a significant decrease in mount
latency was observed in animals treated with hydro-alcoholic
and aqueous extracts at the dose of 400 mg/kg body weight.
Whereas moderate decrease was found in animals treated
with hydro-alcoholic extract 200 mg/kg body weight. Other
group like aqueous extract 200 mg/kg body weight was
found to be inactive (Table 2).
Intromission frequency

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Table 2: Effect of Asparagus racemosus extracts on sexual behavior of male rats
Group
(Dose mg/kg)

No. of
animals

Mount
frequency

Mount
latency (sec.)

Intromission
frequency

Intromission
latency (sec.)

Ano-genital
sniffing

Genital
grooming

Control

2.16+0.47

307.50+6.80

0.33+0.21

793.33+251.84

3.00+0.57

1.66+0.33

Sildenafil citrate (4.5)

10.33+1.40*

106.67+7.49**

1.33+0.21*

191.63+101.67

10.66+1.14**

3.83+0.47**

Aqueous 200

4.83+0.79

290.33+3.75

0.50+0.22

561.67+251.27

5.00+0.57

2.33+0.49

Aqueous 400

6.50+0.76**

260.83+3.51**

1.33+0.21*

633.33+200.69

6.16+0.74

2.66+0.49

Hydro-alcoholic 200

5.833+0.79*

289.35+2.41*

0.66+0.21

760.00+ 240.83

6.50+1.05*

2.33+0.21

8.33+0.84**

165.33+3.75**

1.50+0.22**

395.00+249.85

8.00+1.15**

3.50+0.49*

Hydro-alcoholic 400
** =

*=

P< 0.01 (Highly Significant), P<0.05 (Moderate Significant)

a) Values are expressed as Mean+ SEM of six animals in each group.
b) Comparison was done between control group and drug treated groups by using one way ANOVA followed by Dunnetts comparison method.

Intromission frequency is expected to increase if the test drug

is effective. The results revealed that hydro-alcoholic extract
400 mg/kg body weight was found to be significant. Whereas
aqueous extract 400 mg/kg body weight possesses moderate
activity. Other groups like aqueous and hydro-alcoholic
extracts 200 mg/kg body weight did not show any activity
(Table 2).
Intromission latency
The results revealed that the hydro-alcoholic extract at higher
concentration of 400 mg/kg body weight is highly active and
possesses potent aphrodisiac activity as compared to control
animals. On the other hand, aqueous extract at lower
concentration of 200 mg/kg body weight possesses moderate
aphrodisiac activity in comparison to control animals.
Whereas hydro-alcoholic extract 200 mg/kg body weight and
aqueous extract 400 mg/kg body weight were found to be
least active (Table 2).
Ano-genital sniffing
A significant increase in number of ano-genital sniffing was
observed in animals treated with hydro-alcoholic extract at
400 mg/kg body weight. Whereas only moderate increase in
number of ano-genital sniffing was observed in animals
treated with hydro-alcoholic extract 200 mg/kg body weight.
Other groups were found inactive (Table 2).
Genital grooming
The results revealed that moderate increase in number of
genital grooming was observed in animals treated with
hydro-alcoholic extract of Asparagus racemosus at the dose
of 400mg/kg body weight. Whereas other groups did not
show in any activity (Table 2).
The plant extracts were subjected for preliminary
phytochemical studies and aphrodisiac activity. The reports
of phytochemical studies showed the presence of saponins,
carbohydrates, glycosides and mucilages. Amount these
compounds; some of the compounds definitely possess
aphrodisiac activity. It was found that an increased
copulatory sexual behaviour and mounting were observed in
animals treated with plant extracts.
Last but not the least, it can be concluded that the herb
Asparagus racemosus is a safe drug without any known
adverse effects and can be very useful in enhancing the male
sexual activity and treating various sexual disorders like
erectile failure, premature ejaculation, lack of sexual desire
and ejaculatory incompetence. Since, it was observed from
the result that hydro-alcoholic extract of Asparagus
racemosus showed better activity when compared to aqueous
extract, hence, in future it was suggested to isolate the
components in the hydro-alcoholic extract which are
responsible for the aphrodisiac activity and also to screen

their aphrodisiac potential both in-vitro and in-vivo models to

evaluate the possible mechanism of the drug.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors express their sincere thanks to Mr. P. M.
Chengappa, Research officer, University of Agricultural
Sciences, Bangalore for his assistance in collection and
identification of the plant material. Thanks are due to Prof. B.
K. Soni for technical assistance and Mr. Ashwini for
scientific assistance respectively.
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